SCHIFFSSCHRAUBEN-ANTRIEBSSYSTEM

摘要

A constant velocity universal joint (18) articulates the propeller shaft assembly without transmitting the propeller thrust, which is delivered to the boat hull in line with an inner propeller shaft (16). The shaft (16) is gearingly connected to a marine power plant located within the boat, exits from the boat, and connects to the inner race of the constant velocity universal joint (18). An outer propeller shaft (20) connects to the outer race of the joint (18) and ends at the propeller (22). In order that the joint (18) serve to transmit rotational torque and permit articulation of the outer shaft (20) relative to the inner shaft (16) without transmitting propeller thrust, this thrust is directed by thrust bearings (66) to an inner and outer thrust housing, thereby bypassing the inner race member of the joints (18) and the inner shaft (16). The inner thrust housing (26) includes an annulus (108) inside which is located the inner shaft (16), resulting in propeller thrust being delivered to the boat in line with the inner shaft. Steering is accomplished by rotation of a steering shaft (78), which turns the outer thrust housing (24) and the outer shaft (20). The drive system may be mounted at the transom (12) or at the hull (28). <IMAGE>